A visit to Sitamarhi in Bihar
'Oh! You are looking at an art style that is the pride of this region: Mithila. It is called Madhubani or Mithila art and is traditionally done by women. They paint on mud walls using natural colours from berries and flowers. These days, you can spot it on paper, fridge magnets and sarees too,' said their host.
'It's very cool. I love the symmetrical fish,' he said, stepping closer for a better look.
'The art is usually inspired from Nature and mythology. Geometrical designs are used too,' said their host, adding, 'In fact, Goddess Sita is said to have been born here in Sitamarhi. She is also a big inspiration for Madhubani art. This evening, let's go to the Sita temple revered by locals and tourists alike.'
'Sita Mata was born here?' asked Taran.
'The Ramayana tells us that Sita had a very unique birth. She was found as a baby while her father, King Janaka, was ploughing the field in this area. That is why this region has a lot of spiritual and cultural importance.'
Exploring
They visited the Goddess Sita's temple that evening. There were many devotees milling about. Later, they headed to a location called Panth-Pakar. 'There really isn't much to see here. Just an old banyan tree. But it is very special.'
It was a hot day, so Taran's mother sat down under the shade of the tree. Appa chimed in, 'It is claimed that Queen Sita rested here on her way to Ayodhya after her marriage to Rama. Now our modern-day queen also rests here.' He smiled at Amma. She smiled back, seeming pleased with the analogy.
'I think our king should find us some local snacks and take us shopping,' she retorted.
'Haha! I'm sure Goddess Sita didn't worry about snacks and had loftier thoughts,' countered Appa.
Taran joined the fun. 'Modern queens have modern problems and finding yummy snacks seems fitting to the occasion.'
Their host added his mite. 'May I present the perfect Bihari snack: Litti Choka? I know just the place for it.'
Everyone piled back into the car and headed back into town, each lost in their own thoughts of the day, till the wafting smell of mustard oil at the restaurant brought them back to the present.
'Litti!' Taran's family said in unison.
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